The 5 most beautiful sailing cruises in the Mediterranean

There’s nothing like a sailboat cruise in the Mediterranean to discover this sea of ​​a thousand secrets.

The mere mention of the Mediterranean Sea immediately brings to mind vacations and sunshine. You can already imagine the beaches, the mountains, the spirit of the south… And you’re right! But to this are added culture and history, closely linked to the sea which, for a very long time, has made it possible to connect countries to each other, more quickly than by land. Turkey, Greece and Italy are the big winners of these trade exchanges of yesteryear.

Today, each of these three countries has an exceptional culture, astounding vestiges and breathtaking coastal landscapes. We therefore offer you a list of the 5 best sailing cruises in the Mediterranean, you will only have to choose where to start!

1. Between relaxation and the sea in the heart of the Aeolian Islands

The schooner is a sailboat with two to seven masts. Suffice to say that when the sails are raised, the look of this boat is incredible. To discover the Aeolian Islands, it is perfect. On board this ship, explore the most evocative and unspoiled corners of this extraordinary archipelago located north of Sicily.

The most beautiful bays and coves await you, lulled by the peaceful atmosphere and the incredible colors of the Mediterranean Sea. This cruise will allow you in particular to visit exceptional places: the island of Stromboli, Vulcano, Panarea, Filicudi… You will approach the characteristic volcanoes of the archipelago, that of Stromboli in particular, a true emblem. Or, you will bathe in the sulphurous hot waters of Lisca Bianca, in Panarea.

2. Discovering the Gulf of Gokova, Turkey

Aboard this traditional schooner, discover the Turkish coast, yet often forgotten when talking about the country. Departing from Bodrum, ancient Halicarnassus, and under the sign of relaxation and swimming, discover the Turkish coasts as well as the many surprises available during your stopovers.

For example, you will have the opportunity to visit the island of Orak or the island of Sedir, also called the island of Cleopatra. You will also have the opportunity on many occasions to swim and taste these warm and welcoming turquoise waters. On the history side, you will explore English Harbor near Ayinda Bay, where English torpedo boats hid during the Second World War and where the remains of military ships sleep. At the end of the program, you will also visit the villages of Cokertme and Kisebuku before returning to Bodrum.

3. Sailboat cruise in the Greek Islands of the Ionian Sea

This sailboat cruise in the Mediterranean will take you to discover the Greek islands of the Ionian Sea. The departure will be from Zakynthos then the schooner will take the direction of Kefalonia to discover paradisiacal and preserved bays.

You will then set off to discover the legendary island of Ithaca, of which Odysseus, according to Homer’s Odyssey, would have been king, and to the islets of Atokos, Skorpios and Meganissi, an island characterized by coves deep and emerald waters. You can obviously make stops to swim and explore some of the most beautiful corners of the Mediterranean such as Poros. Back in Zakynthos, you will also have the opportunity to take a wine tour in the Greek hinterland (at an additional cost), to discover its wines and its magnificent landscapes far from the beaten track.

4. Sea, relaxation and Greek culture between Corfu and the Ionian Islands

This cruise will guide you through the Ionian Islands departing from Corfu, a famous Greek island. So, head south, towards Syvota and its magnificent blue lagoon! As an option, you can take a Greek cooking class, if you wish.

You will then reach Parga and then the island of Paxos, with its well-known elegant port of Gaios. Throughout your cruise, you will also discover many hidden bays, along the steep and colorful coastlines. In Lakka, an irresistible seaside resort located in a natural bay, you will admire the pastel-colored houses and can then enter the typical local tavernas overlooking the sea. Finally, you will return to Corfu where you will visit the historic center of Kerkyra, a Venetian town magnificent listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

5. The archaeological remains of the Lycian coast in Turkey

Explore the archaeological remains of the Lycian coast through a fascinating journey: a sailing cruise in the Mediterranean. First, you will discover Olympos, an ancient city located by the sea and surrounded by maritime pine forests. You can also swim and enjoy the Mediterranean temperature of its translucent waters.

Next stop: Cayagzi, an excellent starting point for an optional visit to the incredible archaeological ruins of Myra, one of the most important cities in the region. Afterwards, you will visit Kekova, a submerged city whose ruins you can observe. Being a protected archaeological site, swimming or diving will not be permitted. Finally, Phaselis, an ancient Greco-Roman city, offers archaeological remains of three ports which show that the city was one of the most important trading points in the Mediterranean. A nice cruise between relaxation and history!